The fire was discovered at the Essex House Hotel in Chinnor Road at just after 6am.

The building is derelict and awaiting demolition so nobody was injured during the incident.

However, the hotel was severely damaged, and six fire engines were needed to put out the blaze.

PC Russell Hounslow, of Thame Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Our house-to-house inquiries revealed that between 2am and 4am on Sunday, around six men were seen throwing objects at the hotel and then running away along Chinnor Road towards the town centre.

"They are aged between 18 and 28-years-old; one was wearing a white top and long socks which he wore over his trousers.

"I appeal to anyone who may know who the offenders are to contact police immediately."

Anyone with information that could assist police inquiries is urged to contact PC Hounslow via Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

If you don't want to speak to police or leave your name contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.